Maintaining a normal blood pressure may prevent kidney failure. Have your blood pressure checked regularly. If you have
high blood pressure, take your blood pressure medications as ordered by your doctor and follow up regularly.

Maintaining blood glucose levels as close to normal as possible helps to prevent kidney disease. Have your glucose checked regularly if you are at risk for
diabetes. If you have diabetes, follow the medication, diet, and exercise plan recommended by your doctor.

Lowering both cholesterol and triglyceride levels to the normal range can slow the progression of renal failure. The statin drugs are commonly used for this purpose.

Proteinuria is leakage of protein in the urine. Aggressive treatment of proteinuria with drugs, such as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers, has been effective in slowing the deterioration of renal function in people with chronic renal failure.

Overuse of over-the-counter pain medication and illegal drugs can damage the kidneys. Take medications only as directed.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.

What I need to know about kidney failure and how it's treated. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases website. Available at:
http://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/health-topics/kidney-disease/kidney-failure-choosing-a-treatment-thats-right-for-you/Pages/ez.aspx.
Updated September 2013. Accessed November 17, 2016.